Why crabapples might be worth growing at home. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours.
![crabapples](https://i0.wp.com/southeastagnet.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/crabapples-Daniel-M.-Hendricks-Flickr.jpg?w=742&ssl=1)
The term crabapple tree refers to pretty much any wild apple tree, and the term crabapple, refers to the significantly smaller apples. Like domesticated apples, they produce five-petaled flowers that can range between white and red. These flowers are pollinated by insects, likely bees, and they often require cross-pollination to produce viable fruit.
Crabapple trees are fairly easy to grow. Though susceptible to much of the disease issues of orchard apples, they are wily cousins that can survive a bit better. Like many fruits, particularly ones that are on the sour side, crabapples make for tasty jellies and jams.
Crabapple trees are a great addition to large and small landscapes, are agreeable to most USDA Hardiness Zones, and once established, crabapples are drought-resistant. Aside from offering up a useful and nutritious fruit, crabapple trees are a delight to have around.
Listen to Cathy Isom’s This Land of Ours program here.
Video: Crab Apples facts & history by Wholesome Day